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Illustration of a business owner holding an FSSAI License certificate, representing food safety compliance in India
FSSAI License

Fri, Jul 04 2025

Shubham Bansal

What is FSSAI License?

Introduction

An FSSAI License is a mandatory registration granted to businesses involved in the manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, or sale of food products in India. It ensures that food businesses comply with the standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Obtaining this license is essential to legally operate any food-related business.

Meaning of FSSAI License

The FSSAI License serves as an authorization confirming that a food business follows hygienic practices and produces safe food for human consumption.

FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, which is the primary regulatory body responsible for setting safety standards, monitoring compliance, and issuing licenses.

There are three main types of FSSAI registrations based on business scale:

  • Basic Registration: For small businesses with turnover up to ₹12 lakhs.

  • State License: For medium-sized businesses operating within a single state.

  • Central License: For larger businesses or those operating in multiple states or engaged in import/export.

Purpose of FSSAI License

The purpose of an FSSAI License is to:

  • Protect consumer health by ensuring food safety.

  • Standardize food quality across the country.

  • Promote transparency and accountability in the food sector.

  • Facilitate traceability in case of food safety issues.

  • It also assures consumers that the food products meet established safety norms.

Importance of FSSAI License

Holding an FSSAI License offers multiple advantages:

  1. Legal Compliance Operating without a valid license is an offense and can result in penalties or closure.

  2. Consumer Trust The FSSAI logo on food products reassures consumers about hygiene and quality.

  3. Business Credibility Licensed businesses are seen as more reliable and professional.

  4. Market Access Many distributors and supermarkets only deal with licensed suppliers.

  5. Better Branding FSSAI registration supports brand reputation and marketing efforts.

Activities That Require an FSSAI License

The license is mandatory for any business involved in activities such as:

  • Manufacturing or processing food products

  • Food packaging and labeling

  • Storage and warehousing of food

  • Transporting food items

  • Importing or exporting food

  • Retailing or distributing food products

Even small food stalls or home-based food sellers must obtain the appropriate registration.

FSSAI License Number and Logo

Once approved, FSSAI issues a 14-digit license number, which must be:

  • Printed on all product labels and packaging.

  • Displayed at the premises.

The FSSAI logo, along with the license number, signals compliance with food safety regulations.

Difference Between FSSAI Registration and License

FSSAI Registration FSSAI License
For petty food businesses For medium and large food businesses
Simple process with fewer documents More comprehensive process and compliance requirements
Basic certificate issued State or Central license issued

Conclusion

Understanding what an FSSAI License means is vital for any food business operator in India. Whether you run a small café, a large manufacturing plant, or an online food delivery service, securing an FSSAI License is both a legal requirement and a commitment to consumer safety.

For more information about regulatory approvals, visit our FSSAI License Services page.

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